Shakespeare wrote, "Parting is such sweet sorrow." But in the sports world, there is often nothing sweet about it. In addition to the sorrow, there's usually a sizeable dose of anger, bitterness, and a lot of really nasty comments on talk radio. And the painful and acrimonious partings seem to overshadow and spoil all the good times that came before.

If you've read this column over the years, you know I'm a die-hard Red Sox fan. (By the way, I'm not bragging about that fact — especially this season. When I contemplate just how much emotional capital I've invested in the Red Sox, beginning in the summer of 1967 at the age of 10 and continuing unabated for four-and-a-half decades, it's really kind of embarrassing.)

Being an expert on the trials and tribulations of Red Sox Nation, I've notice that saying goodbye to old friends is usually very awkward and painful. Yes, every once in a while there will be a fond farewell, such as the big on-field bash in honor of Carl Yastrzemski when his playing days ended. But for every Captain Carl, there are 10 guys like Manny Ramirez, who left the team with a lot of bitterness and harsh words.

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